The Wii U has gotten off to a bit of a slow start, with the release of new games slowing down to a trickle in recent months. However, Nintendo has plenty planned for 2013. We break down what new games and services players can expect as the second wave of Wii U software approaches.

Note: This article originally appeared in the February issue of Game Informer magazine (issue 238), but has been updated with new information from Nintendo's Wii U Direct press conference.

Pikmin 3
Spring
Pikmin 3 was one of the most celebrated showings at Nintendo's E3 2012 press conference. As in previous installments, players command groups of the adorable creatures to solve puzzles, traverse the environment, and defeat bosses. Curiously, Nintendo recommends playing Pikmin 3 with a Wii remote and nunchuk, but confirmed it can also be played exclusively with the GamePad.

Rayman Legends
February 26
Announced as a Wii U exclusive, Rayman Legends is the direct sequel to 2011's acclaimed Rayman Origins. Similar to New Super Mario Bros. U, Rayman Legends allows a fifth player to aid friends by triggering interactive objects, nabbing collectibles, and tripping up enemies via the GamePad's touchscreen.

Aliens: Colonial Marines
February 12
Gearbox Software has been vocal in its enthusiasm for Wii U, and Aliens: Colonial Marines makes it easy to see why. The GamePad's touchscreen is perfect for the franchise, functioning as an in-game map and replicating the series' iconic motion tracker.

Wii Fit U
Summer
One of the first games demoed by Nintendo for its new system, Wii Fit U allows players to use the GamePad in conjunction with the Wii Balance Board to perform a variety of exercise-focused minigames. Nintendo announced Wii Fit U as a "launch window" title, which means players should have it by March at the latest.

Lego City Undercover
March 18
The latest Lego game from Traveller's Tales breaks with tradition by giving players an open-world city to explore. As Officer Chase McCain, players bust criminals and Lego blocks alike, while donning a variety of costumes that unlock unique abilities.

The Wonderful 101
Early 2013
Formerly known as Project P-100, Platinum Games' The Wonderful 101 tasks players with repelling alien invaders via a swarm of superheroes. The cartoony brawler allows you to recruit new citizens to strengthen your mob and perform united super attacks by swiping gestures on the GamePad's touchscreen.

Coming Up Next: Nintendo pushes the boundaries of what gamers can do with their fingers, teases a JRPG mash-up, and announces two no-brainers fans will go bonkers over...